Study Shows Lax Records In Sunrise Public Works

SUNRISE — Mayor Larry Hoffman is changing procedures in the Public Works Department after a study of the department found weak inventory controls and some poor record keeping.

``We`ve already started implementing recommendations from the study,`` Hoffman said of the study released Tuesday. ``We`ve basically seen the same problem in Public Works that we`ve seen in other city departments -- poor records.``

Among the findings from the independent study, performed by Alexander Grant & Company, were:

(BU) No account to properly document what is taken or replaced in inventory.

(BU) No review to ensure items removed from inventory were used for the purpose stated on work orders.

(BU) No analysis to determine the productivity of employees.

(BU) Procedures that allow for inconsistencies in chargebacks to other city departments requiring work from Public Works.

(BU) Inadequate authorization of work orders.

The study, to determine if the department`s internal controls, were sufficient, had been requested by former acting Mayor Bob Butterworth, Hoffman said.

Butterworth had four independent studies performed on other departments while serving for 10 months ending Sept. 10. Butterworth said the studies were necessary to reorganize the city.

Hoffman, who said he would be carrying out changes initiated by Butterworth, said he found a poor chain of command in the Public Works Department. Public Works was headed by Lou Perrotti, who retired Nov. 1. There are 40 applicants interested in replacing Perrotti, Hoffman said.

The study was scheduled to be given to the City Council Tuesday night, Hoffman said.